The South Yorkshire town impressed judges to top its category in the Yorkshire in Bloom contest.

Doncaster might not be a place linked with prettiness, but its floral appearance was praised as "tremendous".

Hanging baskets, containers and trees created a vibrant atmosphere in the town centre, said judges.

Flowerbeds on traffic roundabouts were "outstanding".

The judgement came after Huddersfield's entry to the Yorkshire in Bloom contest was scrapped in July, because the town centre was deemed too scruffy.

Town centre managers called off a visit by the judging panel in July because of extensive litter, graffiti and chewing gum.

Alison Campbell, assistant town centre manager, said it was counter- productive to even try.

Announcing the award winners, Yorkshire in Bloom organisers said they were impressed with the standard of entries.

Doncaster was judged the best in the category for places with populations between 100,000 and 200,000. Designs for its floral displays included St George on his horse, the Pilgrim Fathers' ship the Mayflower and the Mallard and Flying Scotsman locomotives, both built in Doncaster.

Children made a full team of flowerpot men in Doncaster Rovers colours, to celebrate the team's promotion back to the Nationwide Football League.

Yorkshire in Bloom chairman Maurice Baren said:

"Many communities recognise that Yorkshire in Bloom helps them to improve their quality of life.

"Floral displays and a much improved environment are seen as important factors in such work."

Brighouse came sixth in the section for towns with 35,000-100,000 people. Judges said quality blooms on traffic islands looked magnificent.